Vancouver Remembered

I long for the Vancouver I remember.

It is becoming more and more rare to find someone from the baby boomer generation, living in Vancouver, who was born in Vancouver.

I'm from the baby boomer generation. I was born in Vancouver and have lived in Vancouver all my life. I remember a very different Vancouver than the one that exists today. Back in my time there was no Wall Centre and no Shangri-La building. Vancouver's skyline was much simpler back then with less skyscrapers obscuring the view of our beautiful mountains.

Back then ...

- Most street parking was free and no permits needed for residential parking.
- Apartments didn't come in the horrible 300 square foot box as today.
- House values were less over inflated.
- Roads were less congested with little or no "road rage".
- Stanley Park had no parking meters.
- Woodward's Department store was a main everyday shopping destination and Eatons was for higher end products.
- Youth showed respect to Police and Bus Drivers.

The list could go on and on. Maybe in a future post I'll add to it. I know I'm "waxing historical" when I yearn for the old Vancouver. Every living entity will change over time. I guess I just don't like all the changes to Vancouver.

What are your thoughts?

Bons Off Broadway

I like a "greasy spoon diner" just as much as the next guy. However, Bons Off Broadway pushes the envelope of disgusting.

I'm amazed that the city health department hasn't shut this restaurant down. Come here and you'll be greeted with foul, lewd graffiti on the walls, tables, napkin holders and even ketchup bottles! The washrooms are of "ghetto" vintage. Sliding into a booth is only hindered by the torn vinyl seats. The ketchup bottles and menus have more grease on them than the hamburgers do.

The interior 70's decor would fine if it weren't destroyed by all the graffiti and lack of upkeep.

Oddly enough this place seems busy. Why, I don't know. The bacon cheese hamburger with fries was good but not memorable. I'd say McD's Angus burgers have more flavour.

So obviously this place really disappoints. I've gone here off and on for over 20 years. For me it's an insult on the senses and the food isn't good enough to compensate.

I rate Bons Off Broadway a 3 out of 10.

Kishimoto Japanese Kitchen

A few days ago my wife and I stumbled upon a great Japanese restaurant on The Drive. Kishimoto Japanese Kitchen creates food that is mouthwatering and visually enticing. Their moto is "food you can eat with your eyes".

Kishimoto has been open for just under a year but has become a favourite restaurant on The Drive. In the evening there is often a line up just to get in.

My wife and I had a vegetarian and a sashimi box. The chef was nice enough to put both on a large plater with his signature decoration. The food was fresh and flavourful and a beautiful sight for the eyes. The price is in line with the quality of food and presentation.

I give Kishimoto a 8.5 out of 10.

2054 Commercial Drive
604-255-5550

Oktoberfest in Vancouver

The host venue for Oktoberfest in Vancouver is at the Vancouver Alpen Club located on Victoria Dr. at 33rd Ave. The Vancouver Alpen Club has been around for 75 years bringing German food and tradition to Vancouver. The Deutsches Haus Restaurant serves up tasty German continental cuisine and the Club offers music and dancing.

The Oktoberfest is a blast to attend especially if you can't make it to Barvaria.

Vancouver Alpen Club   
604.874.3811
Oct. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20